Published By: Soham Halder

Science & Space Roundup: Top News of the Day (Jan 7)

Here are today’s most important updates from the realm of Science and Space.

HMPV in Focus: The Long-Known Virus Making a New Impact

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a well-known respiratory virus, has recently gained attention. In India, a couple of HMPV cases were reported as part of the routine surveillance by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). However, the experts have reassured the public that HMPV is not a new pathogen. HMPV can cause a range of illnesses, from mild respiratory discomfort to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The virus is common worldwide and typically peaks during late winter and early spring. “No need for concern if you’re vaccinated for Covid,” experts confirmed. Mild cases of HMPV generally last a few days to a week, while severe cases may take longer to recover. Persistent symptoms, such as a cough, may linger longer.

Grabbing Space Junk: ISRO's Tethered Capture Innovation

Credit - X/@isro

ISRO's SpaDeX mission achieved a major milestone with its robotic arm demonstrating tethered debris capture in space, showcasing advanced technology for debris management and spacecraft refuelling. The Debris Capture Robotic Manipulator (DC-RM), developed by Isro's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), features seven movable joints and can relocate itself on the PS4-Orbital Experiment Module (POEM-4) platform using an inchworm-like mechanism. Its design includes advanced robotic joints, arm controllers, grappling mechanisms, cameras for precise movement, and obstacle-avoidance software powered by a high-performance processor. One of the primary goals of the experiment is to demonstrate the robotic arm’s ability to operate over a large area in orbit.

The 50-Year Wonder: Strange Object Circling the Sun

Credit - X/@hbhammel

Recent observations from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have unveiled fascinating details about the centaur (2060) Chiron, a hybrid celestial body that exhibits characteristics of both asteroids and comets. Discovered in 1977, Chiron orbits the Sun every 50 years, situated between Jupiter and Neptune. The research team detected frozen carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide on Chiron's surface, along with carbon dioxide and methane gases in the cloud of gas and dust surrounding it. The research also revealed the presence of water ice and various carbon-based molecules, such as ethane and propane, indicating complex chemical processes.

From Ice to Fire: Antarctic Meltdown Fuels Volcanic Threat

Climate change is dramatically reshaping Antarctica, a continent long considered one of the most remote and stable regions on Earth. Beneath Antarctica’s pristine ice lies a hidden network of volcanoes, dormant yet potentially dangerous. As the continent’s ancient ice sheets melt under the influence of climate change, scientists are uncovering an alarming connection between the shifting ice and activity deep below the surface. The result could be a chain reaction of volcanic activity with potentially devastating consequences, not only for the fragile Antarctic ecosystem but for global climate systems and sea levels as well.